RANGERS’ search for a new sporting director has reportedly led them to Spain.
The Gers axed the much-maligned figures of sporting director Kevin Thelwell and Patrick Stewart almost two weeks ago.
Both men were blamed by fans for the appointment of Russell Martin whose disastrous spell was brought to a swift end after just 123 days in charge.
Supporters raised serious concerns over the club’s recruitment strategy particularly the £10million signing of Youssef Chermiti – who became the Light Blues’ most expensive deal since Tore Andre Flo 25 years ago.
Adding fuel to the fire was the appointment of Kevin Thelwell’s son Robbie to head of recruitment.
Fans held protests at games and there were also confrontations at an airport and hotel lobby.
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Gers’ US supremo Andrew Cavenagh decided enough was enough on November 24 just five months since the private health tycoon and the 49ers Enterprises took control of the club.
Now it’s being claimed by Radio Marca in Spain that Rangers have enquired about the possibility of signing Real Betis‘ sporting director Manu Fajardo.
The 40-year-old was at Levante as a chief scout before moving to Rayo Vallecano into a team co-ordinator role.
He took up the same position at Betis before becoming the club’s sporting director in February 2024.
Fajardo is credited with successful deals in bringing in the likes of Antony, Diego Lorente, Giovani Le Celso and selling Chadi Riad to Crystal Palace for £14m.
Real Betis under head coach Manuel Pellegrini are on an eight-match unbeaten run ahead of facing Barcelona and are fighting for the Champions League spots in La Liga.
They are currently fifth in Spain and fifth in the Europa League.
The report also states other clubs are interested in Fajardo, including in Italy.
And it says it might be difficult to prise away the club’s sporting director as he is happy at his club.
Meanwhile, Betis are reportedly interested in signing former Rangers star Hamza Igamane.
The Moroccan striker has made an explosive start to his career at Lille since leaving the Gers this summer.
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